Overview & Reviews

When the midsize Kia Sorento first appeared, it featured a traditional, trucklike (body-on-frame) design that provided a level of ruggedness not typically found on crossover SUVs. Blessed with above-average off-roading and towing abilities, the V6-powered first-generation Sorento won our respect for its practical nature. It also boasted impressive value, offering the dimensions of a midsize SUV at a compact-crossover price point.

But the original Sorento was clearly out of sync with the crossover craze. Nowadays, most consumers want the more fuel-efficient and better handling qualities that carlike (unibody) architecture provides. So Kia provided precisely that with its second- and third-generation Sorento models. These newer Sorentos are among the best picks for a small or midsize crossover SUV thanks to their choice of four-cylinder or V6 power, roomy interiors, available third-row seat and extensive warranty coverage.

Current Kia Sorento
For 2014, the Kia Sorento enters its third generation. Although the styling is essentially carried over apart from minor front and rear end updates, the latest Sorento features a new chassis, a redesigned cabin and a new V6 engine. The stiffer chassis and revised suspension combine to improve handling and ride comfort compared to the second-generation version.

The Sorento's base 2.4-liter four-cylinder generates 191 horsepower and 181 pound-feet of torque, while the uplevel engine, a 3.3-liter V6, makes 290 hp and 252 lb-ft of torque. Both are matched to a six-speed automatic transmission, and there is a choice of standard front-wheel drive or optional all-wheel drive.

A redesigned cabin offers an optional navigation system with 8-inch touchscreen that also interfaces with UVO eServices, Kia's name for its suite of smartphone-enabled apps. A premium Infinity audio system is available, as are a power liftgate (with height adjustment), a panoramic sunroof, ventilated front seats and a blind-spot monitoring system, the first such system available on any Kia model. Trim levels include LX, EX, SX and SXL.

In reviews, we've been impressed by the Sorento's intuitive controls and user-friendly voice-command system. Seat comfort in the first and second rows is solid, although the third row is best left for kids. On the road, the Sorento feels a bit underpowered with the four-cylinder engine. Considering the mere 1 mpg (combined estimate) difference between the two, the notably better-performing V6 is well worth the added cost. The Sorento is exceptionally quiet and the suspension soaks up bumps with ease. The Kia's handling and steering are far from sporty, but it's certainly sure-footed enough for a family vehicle. In city traffic and parking lots the Sorento feels smaller than it really is and in general is more maneuverable than larger seven-passenger SUVs. Poor rearward visibility can make backing into a tight space seem daunting, but the available rearview camera and parking sensors make the task much easier.

Used Kia Sorento Models
The second-generation Kia Sorento debuted in 2011 and was produced until 2013. As with the current model, it was available with four-cylinder or V6 power and had an available third-row seat. Thanks to a roomy interior, plenty of features and an attractive price, it's a great choice for a used crossover SUV.

Kia offered this Sorento in LX, EX and SX trim levels. Five-passenger seating was standard on all but the LX V6 and SX, which came with the otherwise optional 50/50 split-folding third-row seat that raised capacity to seven.

A 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine with 175 hp and 169 lb-ft of torque was standard on the LX. A direct-injected version of this engine (with 191 hp and 181 lb-ft) debuted for 2012 and was optional on the LX and standard on the EX. Standard on the SX and optional on the others was a 3.5-liter V6 with 276 hp and 248 lb-ft. All Sorento trims had a six-speed automatic. Front-wheel drive was standard, while all-wheel drive was available.

Even the base model came with alloy wheels, full power accessories, air-conditioning, a tilt-and-telescoping multifunction steering wheel and Bluetooth connectivity. Upper trims offered standard and optional niceties like a back-up camera, dual-zone automatic climate control, leather upholstery, a ventilated driver seat, a panoramic sunroof, a navigation system, UVO voice activation and an Infinity sound system.

In reviews, we were impressed with the third-generation Kia Sorento. The base 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine was a bit buzzy and overtaxed in this application, so we recommend going with the upgraded four-cylinder or the V6. On the road, the Sorento provided a smooth and quiet ride as well as secure handling. Seating was comfortable, and the available third-row bench could even accommodate adults on short trips, making the Sorento an affordable alternative to full-size three-row crossovers.

Prior to this was the first-generation Kia Sorento that was produced from 2003-'09 (there was no 2010 model). It debuted with a 3.5-liter, 192-hp V6 in LX or EX trim. LX models had either a five-speed manual or a four-speed automatic transmission, while the EX came only with the automatic. From 2005 on, the automatic was a five-cog unit. Both part-time and full-time 4WD were available, depending on the trim, and both systems included low-range gearing, a feature absent from the current Sorento. For 2007, all Sorentos were upgraded to an all-aluminum 3.8-liter V6 engine good for 262 hp, and the interior received a different dash design and better-quality materials. For 2008-'09, a base model with a 3.3-liter V6 was introduced, and the LX got this engine as well; the EX, however, kept the 3.8-liter V6.

Standard equipment on the first-generation Sorento included air-conditioning, full power accessories, a CD audio system, multiple power points and 60/40-split flip-and-fold rear seats. Upper trims added items like alloy wheels, a sunroof, keyless entry, cruise control and leather upholstery. Dual-zone automatic climate control, leather upholstery and heated front seats were among the notable options.

In reviews, we noted that this Kia Sorento changed considerably over the years, so if you want more power and a higher-quality cabin, it's best to focus your attention on more recent model years. The late-arriving 3.8-liter V6 had plenty of power, and all Sorentos excelled off-road relative to car-based rivals. The cabin had an abundance of storage space, the front seats were well-shaped and three could be seated in the rear if need be, though knee and toe room were somewhat tight. Downsides included lackluster on-pavement handling and ride quality and below-average fuel economy. But if you're looking for an affordable SUV that can take on the occasional camping trip without breaking a sweat, a used Sorento's worth a look.

User Reviews:

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  Happy new owner - 2008 Kia Sorento
  By Seibs - September 30 - 11:03 pm

  Took delivery of vehicle in the morning, and took a 250+ mile trip in the afternoon - mostly freeway in hilly country. Got 22/5 MPG. Traded in 1997 Pathfinder - much the same size vehicle. Having a super time with the manual control of the automatic tranny. Vehicle is so quiet, and great fun to drive. So far, best choice of car ever made -- and the price was definitely right

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  Great car, fun to drive, dependable. - 2004 Kia Sorento
  By pwdohio - September 30 - 9:23 pm

  We bought it new with about 40 miles on it. 3 wks later took it out west (we are from Ohio) pulling a 16 fiberglass/lightweight Casita trailer, pulled great!

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  great car - 3 years and no regrets - 2003 Kia Sorento
  By Ernie Hobbs - September 30 - 1:46 am

  This has been a great car. Ive had it for three years and so far, no regrets. I also have a 2005 Dodge Durango and I still prefer to drive my Sorento.

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  I love my Sorento - 2005 Kia Sorento
  By cindy - September 26 - 10:23 am

  I purchased my Sorento EX new 4 years and 80,000 miles ago and I still love it. I had no use for my minivan any longer, but didnt want to go back to a car. I have had no regrets since I drove off the lot with it. The only problem Ive had was my passenger seat air bag sensor stopped working and they replaced it of course at no charge. When this one wears out, I will get another one.

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  Early Adopter - 2011 Kia Sorento
  By Linenguy - September 25 - 8:33 pm

  Purchased 2010 Kia LX and it is an impressive vehicle for price. Owned two Hyundai Santa Fes and compared what Kia offered for money and it was no comparison. Surprised 4 cylinder had similar power to my V6 Santa Fe. I live in hilly area and the 4 climbs as well as old V6. To early to tell is reliability will be as good as Hyundai, but since they are same company I assume it will be comparable. Vehicle drives sporty but feels solid and bigger than my Santa Fe. Will see long term mileage. Got my Sorento Lease for less than my 2007 Santa Fe with no money down. Take a look Im sure you will be impressed with value for money. Would get a V6 if you tow things.

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  Kia Built a Winner - Great Value! - 2016 Kia Sorento
  By Jason - September 22 - 8:46 am

  Updated after 10 months - Bottom line - The Sorento is still a quality ride. My biggest knock is the UVO electronics has had to be reset several times after locking up and the KIA service department weve dealt with SUCKS! At 5K we took this vehicle in for a front passenger door rattle and were lectured by the service manager about how if they find a penny or something similar in the door wed be charged $105 per hour for repairs. In fact if they found nothing wed be charged for their troubleshooting time. After dealing with GREAT hassle free Honda service it blew my mind how the KIA service manager treated us! Just cant beat Honda service, pretty sure well go back to a Pilot or maybe scale down to a CRV in 2018. ORIGINAL REVIEW - This Kia is a really nice mid-size SUV! Im a Honda guy, my daily commuter is still an Accord. My wife is the primary driver of the Sorento and it replaced our 08 Pilot. We really research major purchases like this to death and tried out most of the SUVs in this class, minus the luxury brands. It took us 2 months to make a decision and it came down the Sorento and the Pilot. I honestly dont think wed have went wrong either way but after 3 months of ownership were still happy with the Sorento. We love our LX but our only regret is going cheap with the LX. In hine sight the larger touchscreen, some of the active safety features and the fog lights wouldve been well worth the extra cost. Well probably drive this Sorento for 2 or 3 years and upgrade, probably only looking at the Pilot and Sorento at that time. Things I like about the Sorento: Power, the V6 is a beast. Comfort, very comfortable passenger compartment. Front and middle row are every bit as good as the Pilot, third row comfort goes to the Pilot but we dont use the third row much. Fuel economy is pretty good were right around 24 mpg overall. Quiet, comfortable ride. The warrenty is huge, it was the deciding factor in our decision. The only knocks: Small infotainment screen, this is my fault for going cheap. Lack of storage when using the third row. Overall were very happy with this Sorento!

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  MY First SUV, 2nd Kia - 2003 Kia Sorento
  By SorentoGuy - September 17 - 10:00 am

  Traded my 2000 Sephia for the Sorento. Love it so far. Delivered witrh tire presure too high..made ride harsh...deflated to 30PSI and now is prett ysmooth. Minor fit and finish issues that can be easily corrected by dealer.

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  Great midsize SUV with extras - 2007 Kia Sorento
  By Mary1 - September 13 - 5:30 am

  I have had my Kia Sorento for a little over a month, and absolutely love it. It provides a comfortable ride, good horsepower, great storage, and cargo room. It is convenient to have the stereo controls on the steering wheel so you do not have to reach over 20 inches change the station. Ha, ha. It took a little work and waiting for my dealer to find the color/option that I wanted (Radiant Red with a sunroof), but it worked out. I test drove an Acura MDX and BMW X5, but found the Sorento shared many of the same features, gas mileage, etc. for less money.

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  I own one - 2003 Kia Sorento
  By michbostn - September 11 - 10:00 am

  I have had 2 explorers before and a mazda SUV.I went looking for another and decided that I being tall, could easily fit into this. My conclusion after 6 months is I dont see why you would NOT buy this. I have so many people ask me what is is since they like the lines. My frinds are buying them.

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  Fun and Comfort! - 2003 Kia Sorento
  By Loving It !! - September 11 - 10:00 am

  Im a 1st time SUV buyer and I dont think Ill ever buy another car again. I am very pleased with this vehicles performance. I feel safe and in control when driving it. Its fun and comfortable. The options are excellent for the price. Who would ever think you could walk out of a dealership with a fully loaded SUV for under $30,000??? I was hesitant about Kia at first, but with a 10 year warranty, Ill take my chances. So far, so good!